Kingsland staff members recognized for years of service

Marilyn Erdman, left, and Claudia Koerner were recognized for their years of service to the Spring Valley, Wykoff and Kingsland school districts. Erdman received a certificate for 25 years, and Koerner, for 30 years.

Kingsland's teachers were ready to rise and shine after a great summer to attend workshops at Kingsland High School Monday morning, Aug. 27, greeted by Kingsland Superintendent John McDonald, who spoke of "passion making a difference in the lives of students" and how that passion translates into dedication and pride in teaching students what they need to know.

Teachers who have given their passion and service to the district were recognized during the breakfast, and McDonald thanked each one for doing the extra things that they do to make the district an excellent one.

Staff members who have served five years include Amber Schneider, Emily Biske, Tara Holmen and Debby Westphal. Todd Davis and Terri Allen have each given 10 years; Shelly Cornell, Scott Mulholland, Bob Tieffenbacher and Kerry Kading have given 15 years; and Paula Ruesink, 20 years.

Kingsland kindergarten teacher Marilyn Erdman has been teaching at Kingsland for the past 25 years, and elementary teacher Claudia Koerner has spent 30 years in lower elementary classrooms, "giving students a good start," according to McDonald.

In other news, the superintendent also announced that the ninth grade students have achieved a 100 percent score in MCA English testing, an accomplishment that thrilled the staff.

A special presentation was also held during the breakfast for Kingsland High School Principal James Hecimovich, who marked his "half-century" birthday that day - Allen brought him a flaming birthday cake and encouraged him to blow the candles out quickly before the frosting melted.